Jamie Ramsey gives you an all-access pass into the world of the Cincinnati Reds

FAN-TASTIC!

One of my favorite things of the Spring is interacting with the Reds fans who come to the Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear. Reds supporters from all over the country have shown up to watch their favorite players practice.

There was a pretty large group out there today. Take a look…

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Today marks my final game of the Spring at Goodyear Ballpark. Friday’s game and Saturday’s split-squad game will be played against the Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix. I’ll be there for both of those titanic struggles.

I know the consensus among players and staff here in Arizona is that they’re ready to go home and get the season started. I am, too, but I also like being here in the warm weather! I’ve also only been here since the 5th of March, while some folks have been here since early February. No matter what the conditions, home is where you want to be (safely).

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Some of the players I’ve really enjoyed watching this Spring have been (in no particular order):

Cesar Izturis: He’s known for being great with the glove, but it’s what he’s done with the bat that has impressed me. Izturis is squaring everything up…and, he’s a hustler. He’s been taking the extra base and going hard. Fun to watch.

Donald Lutz: Who knew this guy was so fast? Lutz is a big man (6’3″, 251 pounds) who can flat out pick ‘em up and put ‘em down. Oh and let’s not forget his “light-tower power” from the left side of the plate.

Billy Hamilton: I haven’t seen Hamilton play much, but I did see him a week ago turn a single into a triple in the blink of an eye. That kind of speed is simply mesmerizing and will have Reds fans buzzing for many years to come.

J.J. Hoover: Hoover has been dominant. Absolutely lights out. I’ve heard whispers that he might have the best “stuff” on the Reds pitching staff.

Todd Frazier: I’m anxious to see Frazier silent the critics who are predicting a “sophomore slump.” He’s looked good in the field and confident at the plate. I’m still surprised at how much power the guy has.

Joey Votto: Any doubts as to whether he’s healthy or not should be put to rest immediately. His home run off Darvish the other day was possibly my favorite thing from Spring Training.

Devin Mesoraco: Mez has been a guy looking to prove his worth this Spring. He has been a beast with the bat, getting hits and showing fantastic plate discipline. As far as I can tell, he’s also been solid behind the plate.

Johnny Cueto: Johnny made it look easy the other day in Mesa. Breezed through 6. I think this is the year people really start to recognize Johnny C’s ability.

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